New Zealand Millennium Cup 2019 Classified as Clean Regatta

The first superyacht regatta of 2019, the New Zealand Millennium Cup 2019 will this year be celebrating certification as a Clean Regatta. The event is the most southerly superyacht regatta to take place anywhere in the world and this edition’s well-matched participants should provide plenty of excitement for both sailors and spectators as well as being gentle on the stunning natural environment where it is held.

Set to take place from the 30th of January through to February 2nd, the regatta will be held in Northland’s gorgeous Bay of Islands which boasts a total of 144 islands and islets. The organiser of the Cup, Stacey Cook, explained that, “Our beautiful environment and natural heritage play a huge part in what makes the Cup so special and it was a no-brainer to make sure we’re doing everything we can to protect this spectacular part of the world. From reusable metal water bottles for every yacht, to banning single use plastic, we feel very positive about becoming a Clean Regatta.”

Amongst the superyachts participating will be regular entrants Janice of Wyoming, Sassafras, Tawera and Silvertip, along with Freya who is entering for the first time this year. There will also be alterations to the format of the regatta as the event is expected to attract increasing numbers of spectator yachts in the run up to the 36th Americas Cup. Moving back the regatta dates so the event runs one week after the local Bay of Islands Sailing Week will allow the organisers to add new courses and make use of the whole bay.

Stacey Cook added, “We’re already receiving entry enquiries; for 2020 and 2021. The J Class Association has also accepted our invitation to race in 2021 and we know having the strikingly-elegant classic yachts race alongside the NZ Millennium Cup will add an extra dimension to our racing.”

Alice Longhurst

After her first taste of life at sea aged three, Alice spends her time writing about yachts, fine wine and the good things in life.